SHILLONG: Meghalaya Boys Football Team, on Wednesday, clinched the gold medal in a spectacular showdown at the Khelo India Youth Games 2024 final in Chennai.
The Meghalaya team, entering the final with four consecutive wins at the trot, secured the championship title with a stunning 2-0 victory against Punjab.
The final, held amidst high anticipation, witnessed Meghalaya’s boys delivering a stellar performance on the field.
Their strategic gameplay and teamwork culminated in a remarkable championship win.
Expressing joy and pride at the team’s victory, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma extended his heartfelt congratulations to Team Meghalaya.
In a message posted on a micro-blogging website, he commended the team’s stellar performance, stating, “Proud of Team Meghalaya for winning the Khelo India Youth Games 2024!! The team played all the matches as champions from the start, and we are so glad to see them shine on a national platform. Congratulations, boys!”
Interestingly, this wasn’t the first instance when the Meghalaya boys locked horns with the Punjab team.
With both emerging from Group A, the Meghalaya team had previously emerged victorious in their group meeting with a scoreline of 2-1.
The journey to the finals was marked by intense battles, and Meghalaya’s semi-final clash against Jharkhand added to the tournament’s excitement.
In a gripping match on January 29, Meghalaya faced a tough challenge from the Jharkhand boys, but at the end came out victorious.
During the first half, Jharkhand dominated the field, netting two goals in the opening 20 minutes.
However, Meghalaya exhibited resilience and determination, turning the tide in the 35th minute with a goal scored from an indirect free kick inside the penalty box.
As the first half concluded, Jharkhand maintained a narrow lead of 2-1, but Meghalaya stormed back to win the clash 5-3.
Mebanlamlynti Marsharing was the star of that encounter with four goals.
The Meghalaya Boys Football Team’s journey in the Khelo India Youth Games 2024 will be etched in the annals of sporting excellence, as they demonstrated skill, strategy, and unwavering determination on their path to becoming the champions.